JP2017500011A - Aerosol delivery device including a pressure-based aerosol delivery mechanism - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery devices. The aerosol delivery device includes a mechanism configured to deliver an aerosol precursor composition from a reservoir to a nebulizer that includes a heating element to generate vapor. The pressure controller may control dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir based on a pressure difference between the first pressure in the reservoir and the second pressure proximate the nebulizer. The first pressure in the reservoir may be substantially equal to atmospheric pressure. Alternatively, the first pressure in the storage unit may be greater than atmospheric pressure. [Selection] Figure 4

Description

  The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery devices, such as smoking articles, and more specifically, aerosol delivery devices that utilize electrically generated heat for aerosol generation (eg, smoking articles commonly referred to as electronic cigarettes). ) An aerosol delivery device is provided that includes a mechanism for delivering an aerosol precursor composition to a nebulizer. A smoking article is heated from an aerosol precursor, which can be vaporized to form an inhalable substance for human consumption, made from tobacco or derived from it, or otherwise incorporated with tobacco. Can be configured to.

  Many smoking devices have been proposed for many years as improvements or alternatives to smoking products that require burning tobacco for use. Many of these devices are allegedly perceived to be associated with cigarettes, cigars, or pipe smoking without delivering significant amounts of incomplete combustion products and pyrolysis products resulting from tobacco combustion. Designed to provide To that end, a number of attempts have been made to use electrical energy to vaporize or heat volatile materials, or to provide a perception of cigarette, cigar, or pipe smoking without a significant degree of tobacco burning. Smoking products, flavor generators, and medicinal inhalers have been proposed. See, for example, US Pat. No. 7,726,320 to Robinson et al. And Griffith, Jr. See various alternative smoking articles, aerosol delivery devices, and heat sources as shown in the background art described in US Patent Publication No. 2013/0255702 to Sea et al. And 2014/0096781 to Sears et al. I want to be. These patents and patent publications are incorporated herein by reference. Also, for example, various types of smoking articles, aerosol delivery devices, referenced by brand names and vendors in US patent application Ser. No. 14 / 170,838 to Bless et al. Filed Feb. 3, 2014, and See also electric heat source. This patent application is incorporated herein by reference.

  However, it may be desirable to provide an aerosol delivery device with improved functionality. In this regard, it may be desirable to improve delivery of the aerosol precursor composition to the nebulizer.

US Pat. No. 7,726,320 US Patent Publication No. 2013/0255702 US Patent Publication No. 2014/0096781

  The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery systems. Such systems have the ability to generate an aerosol as a result of the heat generated by the power source and deliver the aerosol intended to be inhaled into the user's mouth. Of particular interest are aerosol delivery systems that provide tobacco components in aerosol form, such as those commonly known as electronic cigarettes or provided to smokers by devices characterized as electronic cigarettes. As used herein, the term “aerosol” is suitable for human inhalation, whether visible or in a form that may be considered “smoky”. It is intended to include forms or types of vapors, gases, and aerosols.

  Various embodiments of a mechanism for delivering an aerosol precursor composition to a nebulizer are provided. These mechanisms may include pumps, passively triggered delivery by inhalation of the aerosol precursor composition, pressurized aerosol precursor reservoirs, bubble jet heads, and other mechanisms described below.

  In one aspect, an aerosol delivery device is provided. The aerosol delivery device may include a controller and a cartridge that includes a reservoir that is at least partially filled with an aerosol precursor composition. The cartridge may be configured to receive an airflow from the control body. The aerosol delivery device may additionally include a nebulizer that includes a heating element. Further, the aerosol delivery device controls the dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir based on a pressure difference between the first pressure in the reservoir and a second pressure proximate the nebulizer. A configured pressure control device may be included. The nebulizer may be configured to heat the aerosol precursor composition received from the reservoir and add the aerosol to the air stream.

  In some embodiments, the first pressure in the reservoir may be greater than the ambient pressure. The pressure control device can include a valve configured to selectively release the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir. The aerosol delivery device may additionally include a flow sensor and the valve may be configured to start in response to a signal from the flow sensor.

  In some embodiments, the cartridge can include a valve and a nebulizer. In another embodiment, the control body may include a valve and a sprayer. The control body can include a coupler and the cartridge can include a base. If the controller coupler is coupled to the base of the cartridge, the valve may be in fluid communication with the reservoir.

  In some embodiments, the first pressure in the reservoir can be substantially equal to the ambient pressure. The pressure control device may include a flow restrictor configured to create a pressure difference between a first pressure in the reservoir and a second pressure proximate the nebulizer. The control body may include a flow restrictor. The flow restrictor may include one or more restrictor holes.

  In some embodiments, the reservoir can include an aerosol precursor bag. The nebulizer is configured to deliver the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir to the heating element during application of the pressure differential, otherwise fluid delivery configured to resist the flow of the aerosol precursor composition to the heating element Additional tubes may be included. The nebulizer can define a chamber and the heating element can be positioned within the chamber.

  In an additional aspect, a method for aerosolization in an aerosol delivery device is provided. The method directs an air stream from a controller through a cartridge including a reservoir that is at least partially filled with an aerosol precursor composition, a first pressure in the reservoir, and a second in proximity to the nebulizer. Controlling the dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir to the nebulizer including the heating element based on the pressure difference between the pressure and the heating element with the aerosol precursor composition dispensed from the reservoir. Heating and adding an aerosol to the air stream.

  In some embodiments, the first pressure in the reservoir may be greater than the ambient pressure. Further, controlling the dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition may include selectively releasing the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir with a valve. The method may additionally include detecting airflow with a flow sensor. Controlling the dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition may include activating a valve in response to a signal from the flow sensor. Selective release of the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir with the valve can include directing the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir within the cartridge through a valve within the controller.

  In some embodiments, the internal pressure in the reservoir can be substantially equal to the ambient pressure. Controlling the dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition can include, with a flow restrictor, creating a pressure difference between a first pressure in the reservoir and a second pressure proximate to the nebulizer. The method includes delivering an aerosol precursor composition through a fluid delivery tube to a heating element during application of a pressure differential and otherwise resisting the flow of the aerosol precursor composition to the heating element. May additionally be included. Controlling the dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition may include directing the aerosol precursor composition into a nebulizer chamber in which the heating element is positioned.

  The present invention includes the following embodiments, but is not limited thereto.

Embodiment 1:
A control body;
A cartridge comprising a reservoir at least partially filled with an aerosol precursor composition and configured to receive an airflow from a controller;
A nebulizer with a heating element;
A pressure controller configured to control dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir based on a pressure difference between the first pressure in the reservoir and a second pressure proximate to the nebulizer; With
An aerosol delivery device, wherein the nebulizer is configured to heat the aerosol precursor composition received from the reservoir and add the aerosol to the air stream.

  Embodiment 2: The aerosol delivery device according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein the first pressure in the reservoir is greater than the ambient pressure.

  Embodiment 3: The aerosol delivery device according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein the pressure control device comprises a valve configured to selectively release the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir.

  Embodiment 4: The aerosol delivery device according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, further comprising a flow sensor, wherein the valve is configured to start in response to a signal from the flow sensor.

  Embodiment 5: An aerosol delivery device according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein the cartridge comprises a valve and a nebulizer.

  Embodiment 6: The aerosol delivery device according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein the control body comprises a valve and a nebulizer.

  Embodiment 7: A preceding or subsequent implementation in which the control body comprises a coupler, the cartridge comprises a base, and the valve is in fluid communication with the reservoir when the controller coupling is coupled to the base of the cartridge. An aerosol delivery device according to any of the forms.

  Embodiment 8: An aerosol delivery device according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein the first pressure in the reservoir is substantially equal to the ambient pressure.

  Embodiment 9: The preceding or subsequent embodiment, wherein the pressure control device comprises a flow restrictor configured to create a pressure difference between a first pressure in the reservoir and a second pressure proximate the nebulizer. An aerosol delivery device according to any of the above.

  Embodiment 10: An aerosol delivery device according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein the control body comprises a flow restrictor.

  Embodiment 11: An aerosol delivery device according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein the flow restrictor comprises one or more restrictor holes.

  Embodiment 12: An aerosol delivery device according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein the reservoir comprises an aerosol precursor bag.

  Embodiment 13: A nebulizer is configured to deliver an aerosol precursor composition from a reservoir to a heating element during application of a pressure differential, or otherwise resist flow of the aerosol precursor composition to the heating element An aerosol delivery device according to any of the previous or subsequent embodiments, further comprising a fluid delivery tube that is adapted.

  Embodiment 14: An aerosol delivery device according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein the nebulizer defines a chamber and the heating element is positioned within the chamber.

Embodiment 15: A method for aerosolization in an aerosol delivery device comprising:
Directing an air stream from a controller through a cartridge comprising a reservoir at least partially filled with an aerosol precursor composition;
Controlling the dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir to the nebulizer with the heating element based on a pressure difference between the first pressure in the reservoir and a second pressure proximate to the nebulizer;
Heating the aerosol precursor composition dispensed from the reservoir with a heating element and adding the aerosol to the air stream.

Embodiment 16: The first pressure in the reservoir is greater than the ambient pressure,
The method of any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein controlling the dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition comprises selectively releasing the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir with a valve.

Embodiment 17: The method further includes detecting airflow with a flow sensor,
The method of any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein controlling the dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition comprises activating a valve in response to a signal from the flow sensor.

  Embodiment 18: Selective release of an aerosol precursor composition from a reservoir with a valve comprises directing the aerosol precursor composition from a reservoir within a cartridge through a valve within a control body, preceding or succeeding A method according to any of the embodiments.

Embodiment 19: The internal pressure in the reservoir is substantially equal to the ambient pressure,
Controlling the dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition includes generating a pressure difference between a first pressure in the reservoir and a second pressure proximate the nebulizer with a flow restrictor, preceding or following A method according to any of the embodiments.

  Embodiment 20 Delivering an aerosol precursor composition through a fluid delivery tube to a heating element during application of a pressure differential and otherwise resisting the flow of the aerosol precursor composition to the heating element The method of any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, further comprising.

  Embodiment 21: Any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein dispensing the aerosol precursor composition comprises directing the aerosol precursor composition into a nebulizer chamber in which the heating element is positioned. The method of crab.

  These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are briefly described below. The invention includes any combination of two, three, four, or more of the embodiments described above, and any two, three, four, or more features described in this disclosure. Or combinations of elements, whether or not such features or elements are expressly combined in the description of specific embodiments herein. This disclosure is intended to contemplate any separable feature or element of the disclosed invention in any of its various aspects and embodiments, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It is intended to be read comprehensively as it should be considered.

Thus, as the present disclosure has been described in terms of the foregoing general terms, reference is now made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily to scale.
FIG. 3 shows an exploded view of a control body according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol delivery device including a bag filled with an aerosol precursor composition configured to passively dispense an aerosol precursor composition during inhalation, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. . FIG. 3 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 2 showing airflow through the aerosol delivery device, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 2 showing the dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition from the bag to the nebulizer according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol delivery device including a valve and a pressurized reservoir filled with an aerosol precursor composition, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 5 showing airflow through the aerosol delivery device, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 5 showing a valve for dispensing an aerosol precursor composition into a nebulizer, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. 1 schematically illustrates a method of aerosolization with an aerosol delivery device comprising dispensing an aerosol precursor composition with a pressure differential.

  The present disclosure will now be described more fully below with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof. These exemplary embodiments are described so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Certainly, the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms, but should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments do not apply to this disclosure. Provided to meet possible legal requirements. As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are used unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also includes multiple variations.

  As described below, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to aerosol delivery systems, devices, and components for them. An aerosol delivery system according to the present disclosure uses electrical energy to heat the material (preferably without burning the material to any significant extent) to form an inhalable substance, and the components of such system Most preferably has the form of an article that is small enough to be considered a handheld device. That is, the use of preferred aerosol delivery system components does not result in smoke generation in that the aerosol is primarily due to tobacco combustion or pyrolysis by-products, rather the use of these preferred systems is It results in the generation of steam due to volatilization or vaporization of certain components incorporated into them. In preferred embodiments, the components of the aerosol delivery system can be characterized as electronic cigarettes, which deliver tobacco-derived components in aerosol form by incorporating tobacco and / or tobacco-derived components. Most preferred.

  The aerosol generating component of certain preferred aerosol delivery systems includes cigarettes, cigars used in tobacco ignition and combustion (and thereby inhaling tobacco smoke) without burning any significant component of the tobacco to any significant degree. Or perception of smoking a pipe (eg inhalation and exhalation habits, taste or flavor type, sensory stimulating effects, physical sensations, usage habits, visual stimuli such as those provided by visible aerosol, etc.) Can provide lots of. For example, a user of an aerosol generating component of the present disclosure can use the component and inhale the aerosol generated by the component, much like a smoker uses a conventional type of smoking article. For example, it is possible to suck one end of the part, blow or suck at a selected time interval, and the like.

  The aerosol delivery system of the present disclosure can also be characterized as being a suitable vapor generating article or drug delivery article. Accordingly, such an article or device may be adapted to provide one or more substances (eg, flavor and / or pharmaceutically active ingredient) in an inhalable form or state. For example, an inhalable substance can be substantially in the form of a vapor (ie, a substance that is in the gas phase at a temperature below its critical point). Alternatively, the inhalable material can be in the form of an aerosol (ie, a suspension of fine solid particles or droplets in a gas).

  The aerosol delivery system of the present disclosure is for generating heat due to a power source (ie, a power source), at least one control component (eg, controlling current from a power release unit to other components of the aerosol generating component, etc.). A means for starting, controlling, regulating and / or stopping the power supplied to the heater, heater or heat generating component (eg, an electrically resistive heating element commonly referred to as providing a “nebulizer” and related) Components), and aerosol precursors (eg, commonly referred to as “smoke juice”, “e-liquid”, and “e-juice”) Components that are liquids capable of producing aerosols when sufficient heat is applied, such as ingredients), and aerosols for aerosol inhalation. Any of the mouth area or tip that allows the aerosol delivery device to be sucked (eg, a defined air flow path through the aerosol generating component so that the generated aerosol can be withdrawn therefrom when sucked) Most preferably, a combination is provided. Exemplary formulations for aerosol precursor materials that may be used in accordance with the present disclosure are described in US Patent Publication No. 2013/0008457 to Zheng et al., The disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

  More specific types, configurations, and arrangements of components within the aerosol delivery system of the present disclosure will be apparent in view of the further disclosure provided below. In addition, the selection and arrangement of various aerosol delivery system components should be understood after considering commercially available electronic aerosol delivery devices, such as the representative products mentioned in the background section of this disclosure. Can do.

  The arrangement of the components within the aerosol delivery device can vary. In certain embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may be configured to be positioned proximal to the user's mouth to maximize delivery of the aerosol to the user, near the end of the article. (Eg, in certain situations, in a cartridge that may be replaceable and disposable). However, other configuration examples are not excluded. In general, the heating element volatilizes and delivers to the user the heat from the heating element volatilizes the aerosol precursor composition (as well as one or more flavors, drugs, etc. that can also be provided for delivery to the user). Can be positioned sufficiently close to the aerosol precursor composition so that an aerosol can be formed. As the heating element heats the aerosol precursor composition, an aerosol is formed, released, or generated in a physical form suitable for inhalation by the consumer. The terminology refers to a release, a releasing, a release, a release, or a released reference that is formed or generated. Replaceable to include forming, generating, forming or generating, and formed or generated Note that it means. Specifically, inhalable substances are released in the form of vapors or aerosols, or mixtures thereof. In addition, the selection of various aerosol delivery device components can be understood after considering commercially available electronic aerosol delivery devices, such as the representative products listed in the background section of this disclosure. .

  The aerosol delivery device incorporates a battery or other power source to provide sufficient current to provide various functionality to the article, such as heater power supply, control system power supply, indicator power supply, etc. . The power source can take on various embodiments. The power source preferably heats the heating element rapidly to provide aerosol formation and can deliver enough power to power the article during the desired period of use. The power source is preferably dimensioned to conveniently fit within the aerosol delivery device so that the aerosol delivery device can be easily handled, and in addition, the power source does not detract from the desired smoking experience. It is preferable that it is sufficiently lightweight.

  The aerosol delivery device can include a cartridge and a control body that can be permanently or removably placed in a functional relationship. Various embodiments of engagement between the cartridge and the control body may be used, such as, for example, threaded engagement, press-fit engagement, interference fit, magnetic engagement, and the like. The aerosol delivery device may be substantially rod-shaped, substantially tubular-shaped, or substantially cylindrical-shaped in some embodiments when the cartridge and control body are in an assembled configuration. However, various other shapes and configurations may be used in other embodiments.

  In certain embodiments, one or both of the cartridge and the control body may be referred to as being disposable or reusable. For example, the control body may have a replaceable battery or a rechargeable battery, thus connecting to a typical AC electrical outlet, connecting to a car charger (ie cigar socket receptacle), And may be combined with any type of recharging technology, including connection to a computer via a universal serial bus (USB) cable or the like. Further, in some embodiments, the cartridge may comprise a single use cartridge, as disclosed in US Patent Publication No. 2014/0060555 to Chang et al., Which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Is incorporated herein by reference.

  In some embodiments, the cartridge is relative to the cartridge and control body as disclosed in US patent application Ser. No. 13 / 840,264 to Novak et al. This patent application may be incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, which may include a base that may have anti-rotation features that substantially prevent rotation.

  The aerosol delivery device may include a component configured to hold the aerosol precursor composition. Aerosol precursor compositions, also referred to as vapor precursor compositions, include, for example, polyhydric alcohols (eg, glycerin, propylene glycol, or mixtures thereof), nicotine, tobacco, tobacco extract, and / or flavoring agents. Various ingredients may be included. Various components that can be included in the aerosol precursor composition are described in US Pat. No. 7,726,320 to Robinson et al., Which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Additional exemplary types of aerosol precursor compositions are described in Sensabaugh, Jr. U.S. Pat. No. 4,793,365 to U.S. Pat. No. 5,101,839 to Jakob et al., PCT International Publication No. 98/57556 to Biggs et al., Henry, filed Apr. 4, 2014. Jr. U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 245,105, and Chemical and Biological Studies on New Cigarette Prototypes that Heat Institute of Burn Tobacco, R .; J. et al. Reynolds Tobacco Company Monograph (1988), the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

A variety of heater components may be used in the present aerosol delivery device. In various embodiments, one or more microheaters or similar solid heaters may be used. Embodiments of microheaters that can be utilized are further described herein. Additional microheaters and nebulizers incorporating microheaters suitable for use in the devices of the present disclosure are described in US Patent Publication No. 2014/0060554 to Collett et al., Which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Incorporated herein. In some embodiments, the heating element wraps the wire around the liquid transport element as described in US patent application Ser. No. 13 / 708,381 to Ward et al., Filed Dec. 7, 2012. This patent application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Further, in some embodiments, the wire may define a variable coil spacing, as described in US Patent Application No. 13 / 827,994, filed March 14, 2013 to DePiano et al. This patent application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Various embodiments of materials configured to generate heat when an electric current is applied therethrough may be used to form the resistive heating element. Exemplary materials that can form a wire coil include Kanthal (FeCrAl), Nichrome, molybdenum disilicide (MoSi ₂ ), molybdenum silicide (MoSi), molybdenum disilicide doped with aluminum (Mo (Si, Al) ₂ ), Examples include graphite and graphite-based materials, and ceramics (eg, ceramics having a positive or negative temperature coefficient). In a further embodiment, a stamped heating element may be used in the nebulizer, as described in US Patent Application No. 13 / 842,125 to DePiano et al. The patent application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In addition to the above, additional exemplary heating elements and materials for use therein are described in US Pat. No. 5,060,671 to Counts et al., US Pat. No. 5,093, 894, U.S. Pat. No. 5,224,498 to Deevi et al., Springel Jr. U.S. Pat. No. 5,228,460 to Devi et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,322,075 to Devi et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,353,813 to Devi et al., U.S. Pat. US Pat. No. 468,936, US Pat. No. 5,498,850 to Das, US Pat. No. 5,659,656 to Das, US Pat. No. 5,498,855 to Deevi et al., US Patent to Hajarigol No. 5,530,225, US Pat. No. 5,665,262 to Hajarigol, US Pat. No. 5,573,692 to Das et al., And US Pat. No. 5,591,368 to Freischhauer et al. The disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Furthermore, chemical heating may be used in other embodiments. Various additional examples of heaters and materials used to form the heaters are described in US Patent Publication No. 2014/0060554 to Collett et al., Which is hereby incorporated by reference Is incorporated herein by reference.

  In some embodiments, the aerosol delivery device of the present disclosure may include a controller and a cartridge. When the control body is coupled to the cartridge, the electrical control components in the cartridge may form an electrical connection with the control body. The control body may therefore use the electrical control component to determine whether the cartridge is genuine and / or performs other functions. In addition, various examples of electronic control components and the functions performed thereby are described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0096781 to Sears et al., Which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Embedded in.

  During use, the user can aspirate the aerosol delivery device cartridge mouthpiece. This can draw air through an opening in the control body or cartridge. For example, in one embodiment, the openings may be coupled to the outer body of the coupler and the control body as described in US Patent Application No. 13 / 841,233 to DePiano et al. This patent application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. However, air flow may be received through other portions of the aerosol delivery device in other embodiments.

  A sensor in the aerosol delivery device (eg, an inhalation or flow sensor in the control body) may sense inhalation. When inhalation is sensed, the controller may direct current through the circuit to the heater. Thus, the heater can vaporize the aerosol precursor composition and the mouthpiece can suck air and entrained vapor (ie, components of the aerosol precursor composition in inhalable form) from the cartridge. May be able to pass through to consumers.

  Various other details regarding the components that can be included in the cartridge are provided, for example, in US Patent Application No. 13 / 840,264 to Novak et al. , Which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In this regard, FIG. 7 shows an enlarged exploded view of the base and control component terminals, FIG. 8 shows an enlarged perspective view of the base and control component terminals in the assembled configuration, and FIG. 9 shows the assembled configuration. FIG. 10 shows an enlarged perspective view of the base, control component terminal, electronic control component, and heater terminal of the sprayer in FIG. 10, and FIG. 10 is an enlarged perspective view of the base, sprayer, and control component in the assembled configuration. FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the opposite side of the assembly of FIG. 10, and FIG. 12 shows an enlarged perspective view of the base, sprayer, flow tube, and reservoir base in the assembled configuration. FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of the base and outer body in the assembled configuration, FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of the cartridge in the assembled configuration, and FIG. 15 shows the cartridge and control body of FIG. First partial perspective view of coupler for FIG. 16 shows a second partial perspective view of the cartridge of FIG. 14 and the connector of FIG. 11 opposite the second partial perspective view, and FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of the cartridge including a base with an anti-rotation mechanism. FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of a control body including a coupler with an anti-rotation mechanism, FIG. 19 shows the arrangement of the cartridge of FIG. 17 with the control body of FIG. 18, and FIG. FIG. 17 shows an aerosol delivery device comprising the cartridge of FIG. 17 and the control body of FIG. 18, which includes an engagement of the anti-rotation mechanism of the cartridge with the anti-rotation mechanism of the connector body. 4 is a perspective view of a base with an anti-rotation mechanism, FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a coupler with an anti-rotation mechanism, and FIG. 6 is an engagement configuration. The base of Figure 4 Beauty shows a cross-sectional view of the connector of the FIG.

  The various components of the aerosol delivery device according to the present disclosure can be selected from components described in the art and commercially available. See, for example, a reservoir and heater system for controllably delivering a plurality of aerosolizable materials in an electronic smoking article, as disclosed in US Patent Publication No. 2014/0000638 to Sebastian et al. The patent publication is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

  FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of a control body 300 of an aerosol delivery device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the control body 300 includes a coupler 302, an outer body 304, a sealing member 306, an adhesive member 308 (eg, KAPTON® tape), a flow sensor 310 (eg, an inhalation sensor or pressure switch), a control. A component 312, a spacer 314, a power source 316 (eg, a battery that may be rechargeable), a circuit board with an indicator 318 (eg, a light emitting diode (LED)), a connector circuit 320, and an end cap 322. obtain. Examples of power sources are described in Peckerar et al., US Patent Application No. 2010/0028766, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Exemplary mechanisms that may provide inhalation actuation capability include MicroSwitch division of Honeywell, Inc. Model 163PC01D36 silicon sensor manufactured by Freeport, Ill. A further example of a demand actuated electrical switch that can be used in a heating circuit according to the present disclosure is described in US Pat. No. 4,735,217 to Gerth et al., Which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Embedded in the book. No. 4,922,901, 4,947,874, all to Brooks et al., For further description of current regulation circuits and other control components including microcontrollers that may be useful in the present aerosol delivery devices. And US Pat. No. 4,947,875, US Pat. No. 5,372,148 to McCafferty et al., US Pat. No. 6,040,560 to Fleischhauer et al., And US Pat. 040,314, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Reference is also made to the control scheme described in US Application No. 13 / 837,542 to Ampolini et al., Filed Mar. 15, 2013, which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

  In one embodiment, indicator 318 may comprise one or more light emitting diodes. The indicator 318 may communicate with the control component 312 through the connector circuit 320 and illuminate while the user is aspirating the cartridge coupled to the coupler 302, for example, as detected by the flow sensor 310. End cap 322 may be adapted to make the illumination provided beneath it by indicator 318 visible. Thus, indicator 318 may be illuminated during use of the aerosol delivery device to mimic the fired end of a smoking article. However, in other embodiments, the indicator 318 can be provided in various numbers, can take different shapes, and can even be an opening in the external fuselage (if such an indicator is present, the sound Etc.)

  Still further components may be utilized in the aerosol delivery devices of the present disclosure. For example, US Pat. No. 5,154,192 to Slinkel et al. Discloses an indicator for smoking articles and is disclosed in Slinkel, Jr. U.S. Pat. No. 5,261,424 discloses a piezoelectric sensor that can be associated with a mouthpiece of a device to detect the action of the user's lips associated with sucking and then trigger heating. U.S. Pat. No. 5,372,148 to McCafferty et al. Discloses an inhalation sensor for controlling the energy flow to a heated load array in response to a pressure drop through a mouthpiece, U.S. Pat. No. 5,967,148 discloses a smoking device including an identification device that detects non-uniformity of the infrared transmission of an inserted component, and a controller that executes a detection routine when the component is inserted into a receptacle. US Pat. No. 6,040,560 to Fleischhauer et al. Discloses a defined feasible power cycle with multiple differential phase shifts. US Pat. No. 5,934,289 to Watkins et al. Discloses a photonic optronic component and US Pat. No. 5,954,979 to Counts et al. Describes suction resistance through a smoking device. US Pat. No. 6,803,545 to Blake et al. Discloses a specific battery configuration for use in a smoking device and US Pat. No. 7,293 to Griffen et al. Discloses means for modifying. 565 disclose a variety of charging systems for use with smoking devices, and US Pat. No. 8,402,976 to Fernando et al. Promotes charging and allows for computer control of the device. US Pat. No. 8,689,804 to Fernando et al. Discloses a computer interfacing means for An identification system for a device is disclosed, and WO 2010/003480 by Flick discloses a fluid flow sensing system that indicates inhalation within an aerosol generation system, all of the foregoing disclosures are in their entirety. Which is incorporated herein by reference. Additional examples of components that relate to electronic aerosol delivery articles and that disclose materials or components that can be used in the articles include US Pat. No. 4,735,217 to Gerth et al., US to Morgan et al. US Pat. No. 5,249,586, US Pat. No. 5,666,977 to Higgins et al., US Pat. No. 6,053,176 to Adams et al., US Pat. No. 6,164,287 to White, Voges US Patent No. 6,196,218 to Felter et al., US Patent No. 6,810,883 to Felter et al., US Patent No. 6,854,461 to Nichols, US Patent No. 7,832,410 to Hon US Patent No. 7,513,253 to Kobayashi, US Patent No. 7,896,006 to Hamano, US Patent No. to Shayan U.S. Patent Nos. 8,156,944 and 8,375,957 to Hon, U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2006/0196518 and 2009/0188490 to Hon, Thorens et al. US Patent Application Publication Nos. 2009/0272379, 2009/0260641 and 2009/0260642 to Monsees et al., US Patent Application Publication Nos. 2008/0149118 and 2010 to Oglesby et al. No./0024834, US Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0307518 to Wang, International Publication No. 2010/091593 to Hon, International Publication No. 2013/088951 to Foo, and DePiano et al. Filed Mar. 15, 2013. US patent application to No. 3 / 841,233 can be cited, each of which in its entirety is incorporated herein by reference. The various materials disclosed by the foregoing documents may be incorporated into the various embodiments of the device, and all of the foregoing disclosures are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

  Thus, exemplary embodiments of aerosol delivery devices are described above. However, the present disclosure provides various other embodiments of aerosol delivery devices. As described below, such aerosol delivery devices may include different configurations of components for storing, delivering, and / or vaporizing the aerosol precursor composition. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2-7 and as described in the following text associated therewith, in some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition is controlled by the pressure controller of the various embodiments. Due to the pressure difference that can be dispensed from the reservoir.

  In this regard, FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol delivery device 800 in accordance with an additional exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the aerosol delivery device 800 can include a controller 802 and a cartridge 804. The controller 802 includes an indicator 806 (eg, an LED), a power source 808 (eg, a battery that can be rechargeable), a flow sensor 810, and one or more restrictor holes 814 defined therethrough. , And outer fuselage 816. The cartridge 804 can include a base 818, a reservoir 820 that can include an aerosol precursor bag 822 received therein, a nebulizer 823 that includes a heating element 824 and a fluid delivery tube 825, a mouthpiece 826, and an outer body 828. The base 818 of the cartridge 804 may be configured to releasably engage the coupler 812 of the control body 802 to form a mechanical and electrical connection therebetween.

  FIG. 3 shows an additional cross-sectional view of the aerosol delivery device 800. More specifically, FIG. 3 shows the air flow path through the aerosol delivery device 800 as the user sucks the mouthpiece 826. As shown, the airflow or ambient air 830 flow may enter the aerosol delivery device 800 and move past the flow sensor 810. Although ambient air 830 is shown to flow through power source 808, in other embodiments, air may not flow through the power source and / or the flow sensor may be in an alternative location. It may be positioned. The air 830 may then travel through the restrictor hole 814 defined therethrough, through the connector 812, through the base 818, around the reservoir 820, and out of the mouth 826.

  As shown in FIG. 3, in one embodiment, air 830 may enter the aerosol delivery device 800 through its longitudinal end opposite the mouthpiece 826. However, in other embodiments, air may enter the aerosol delivery device at alternative locations. For example, air may enter through a connector or base or at a location between the base and the mouthpiece. Thus, it should be understood that the specific airflow patterns described herein are provided for illustrative purposes only.

  As described below, the aerosol precursor composition 832 may be directed from the aerosol precursor bag 822 to the nebulizer 823. In this regard, the nebulizer 823 may include a housing 833 that defines a chamber 835 in which the heating element 824 is positioned and the aerosol precursor composition 832 is delivered. Thus, problems associated with the aerosol precursor composition 832 being directed into the air 830 and directed to the user without being vaporized can be avoided. In this regard, the aerosol precursor composition 832 may be directed into contact with the heating element 824 in the chamber 835 to ensure its vaporization.

  When the user inhales at the mouthpiece 826 of the aerosol delivery device 800, a pressure differential can be created on both sides of the aerosol precursor bag 822. More specifically, the limited flow of air 830 around the reservoir 820 causes a portion of the aerosol delivery device 800 between the base 818 and the aerosol precursor bag 822 (eg, within the control body 802) to It may be configured to have a relatively higher pressure than a portion of the aerosol delivery device between the aerosol delivery bag and the mouthpiece 826 (eg, within the cartridge 804). In other embodiments, the pressure differential across the aerosol precursor bag may be formed in other manners that use the pressure differential to direct the aerosol precursor composition therefrom.

  While the pressure differential is described as being defined between the first and second opposing sides of the aerosol precursor bag 822 during inhalation of the aerosol delivery device 800, the pressure differential is described elsewhere. It may be additionally or alternatively defined between. For example, the pressure differential may be in close proximity (and more specifically) to the first pressure in the reservoir 820 (and more specifically in the aerosol precursor bag 822) and the nebulizer 823 during inhalation of the aerosol delivery device 800. Specifically, it may be defined between a second pressure (close to the outlet to the fluid delivery tube 825 in the chamber 835 defined by the housing 833). In this regard, the pressure in the cartridge 804 may decrease as the user sucks at the mouthpiece 826. As such, the second pressure proximate to the nebulizer 823 can be reduced and can be less than the first pressure at the aerosol precursor bag 822. In this regard, in some embodiments, the first pressure in the aerosol precursor bag 822 of the reservoir 820 can be substantially equal to ambient pressure (eg, atmospheric pressure). Thus, during the suction of the aerosol delivery device 800, as a result of the sub-atmospheric pressure defined in the nebulizer 823 proximate to the outlet to the fluid delivery tube 825, the aerosol precursor composition 832 can be , From the aerosol precursor bag 822 through the fluid delivery tube and into the heating element 824.

  However, in the example where a small pressure drop is associated with inhalation of the aerosol delivery device 800, the pressure difference between the first pressure of the aerosol precursor bag 822 and the second pressure proximate the nebulizer 823 is relatively It may be small. In other words, if there was relatively little resistance to aspiration of the aerosol delivery device 800, the decrease in pressure within the cartridge 804 relative to atmospheric pressure may be relatively low. As such, aerosol delivery device 800 may include a pressure controller configured to create a pressure differential.

  Specifically, the pressure controller can comprise a flow restrictor configured to restrict the air flow through the aerosol delivery device 800 to create a pressure differential. Various embodiments of flow restrictors may be used. For example, the flow restrictor can comprise a restrictor hole 814 defined through a connector 812. Thus, restrictor hole 814 may define a relatively small area, which increases the pressure drop associated with air moving from control body 802 to cartridge 804. In another embodiment, the restrictor holes are additionally or alternatively defined in the cartridge (e.g., through the base or around the reservoir) and function in substantially the same manner, with the suction of the aerosol delivery device. The associated pressure drop can be increased. In other embodiments, various other restrictions along the air flow path through the aerosol delivery device 800 may be used.

  Using an aerosol precursor bag 822 relative to the use of a rigid container can help dispense the aerosol precursor composition 832 from the reservoir 820. In this regard, the aerosol precursor bag 822 may deflate as the aerosol precursor composition 832 is dispensed therefrom. In one embodiment, the aerosol precursor bag 822 may include an elastic material (eg, rubber) that facilitates delivery of the aerosol precursor composition 832 therefrom while resisting the formation of a vacuum therein. In this regard, the elastic material may stretch slightly when the aerosol precursor bag is filled with the aerosol precursor composition and may define a natural state when empty. Thus, no vacuum can be created in the reservoir 820 when the aerosol precursor composition 832 is dispensed, otherwise the reservoir is opened to allow air to enter there. Without including the features configured in, the dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition can be difficult.

  Regardless of the particular manner in which the pressure differential is formed and the particular embodiment of the reservoir used, the pressure differential can cause release of the aerosol precursor composition 832 through the fluid delivery tube 825 to the nebulizer 823. In this nebulizer, a heating element 824 vaporizes the aerosol precursor composition, as shown in FIG. In this regard, when the flow sensor 810 detects inhalation in the aerosol delivery device 800, the current from the power source 808 can be directed to the nebulizer 823 to generate heat. Thus, as shown in FIG. 4, the aerosol precursor composition 832 directed to the nebulizer 823 can be heated and vaporized. The aerosol or vapor 836 formed in the chamber 835 can then be mixed with the air 830 and exit through the mouth 826.

  Chamber 835 may be configured to provide an optimal discharge rate of vapor 836 from there to air 830. In this regard, chamber 835 may include one or more outflow holes 838, as shown in FIGS. As shown in FIG. 4, the vapor 836 may exit the chamber 933 through the outflow hole 838.

  Further, in one embodiment, the chamber may additionally define one or more inflow holes. The inlet hole may be configured to allow air flow therethrough into the chamber. Thus, as the user inhales the aerosol delivery device, air entering through the inlet hole may be mixed with the vapor and exit through the outlet hole. In this regard, the inflow hole is where air flowing through the aerosol delivery device impinges on the inflow hole (e.g., the inflow hole extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol delivery device, and thus into the airflow therethrough. Relative to each other). Thus, the inlet holes can help remove vapor from the chamber.

  Further, in some embodiments, a valve may be provided at one or both of the inlet and outlet holes. Such valves can be opened or closed passively or actively to allow air to flow into the chamber and / or steam to flow out of the chamber. Alternatively or in addition, the inlet and / or outlet holes are specifically sized to provide a desired flow of vapor from the chamber while at the same time ensuring substantially complete vaporization of the aerosol precursor composition. obtain.

  The fluid delivery tube 825 allows the flow of the aerosol precursor composition 832 through the fluid delivery tube when a pressure differential is applied to generate the vapor 836 as described above, but in other examples (e.g., , At other times) the fluid delivery tube may resist the flow of the aerosol precursor composition to the heating element 824. In this regard, the fluid delivery tube can be sized such that the flow therethrough is subject to resistance when there is no pressure differential. For example, surface tension can resist the flow therethrough. Thus, the dimensions of the fluid delivery tube 825 can be specifically selected depending on the viscosity of the aerosol precursor composition 832 to resist flow therethrough in examples other than when a pressure differential is applied.

  FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol delivery device 900 according to an additional exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The aerosol delivery device 900 may create a pressure differential using different embodiments of pressure control devices, as described below. As shown, aerosol delivery device 900 may include a controller 902 and a cartridge 904. The controller 902 includes an indicator 906 (eg, an LED), a power source 908 (eg, a battery that may be rechargeable), a flow sensor 910, an active valve 912 (eg, a micro pressure valve), a nebulizer 914 (eg, a heating element). A connector 916, and an outer body 918. The cartridge 904 can include a base 920, a pressurized reservoir 922, a mouthpiece 924, and an outer body 926. The base 920 of the cartridge 904 can be configured to releasably engage the coupler 916 of the control body 902 to form a mechanical and electrical connection therebetween. Thus, the active valve 912 can be in fluid communication with the pressurized reservoir 922 when the coupler 916 of the controller 902 is coupled to the base 920 of the cartridge 904. For example, as shown, the active valve 912 may define an extension 927 that is configured to engage a recess 929 within the pressurized reservoir 922. However, other embodiments provide a substantially fluid tight seal that resists pressure loss from the pressurized reservoir 922 other than the pressure loss that occurs when the active valve 912 opens as described below. As long as the mechanism is configured in this way, other connection components and methods may be used.

  FIG. 6 shows an additional cross-sectional view of the aerosol delivery device 900. More specifically, FIG. 6 shows the air flow path through the aerosol delivery device 900 as the user aspirates the mouthpiece 924. As shown, airflow or ambient air 928 flow may enter aerosol delivery device 900 and move past flow sensor 910. Although ambient air 928 is shown to flow through power source 908, in other embodiments, air may not flow through the power source and / or the flow sensor may be in an alternative location. It may be positioned. Air 928 may then travel through one or more holes 930 defined therethrough, through connector 916, through base 920, around pressurized reservoir 922, and out of mouthpiece 924. .

  As shown in FIG. 6, in one embodiment, air 928 may enter the aerosol delivery device 900 through its longitudinal end opposite the mouthpiece 924. However, in other embodiments, air may enter the aerosol delivery device at alternative locations. For example, air may enter through a connector or base or at a location between the base and the mouthpiece. Thus, it should be understood that the specific airflow patterns described herein are provided for illustrative purposes only.

  The aerosol delivery device 900 dispenses the aerosol precursor composition from the pressurized reservoir 922 based on the pressure difference between the first pressure in the reservoir 922 and the second pressure proximate the nebulizer 913. A pressure control device configured to control. However, the embodiment of the aerosol delivery device 800 described above and shown in FIGS. 2-4 passively dispensed the aerosol precursor composition based on the pressure differential caused by its inhalation by the user. In contrast, the aerosol delivery device 900 shown in FIGS. 5-7 can selectively release the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir 922 based on an existing pressure differential using the active valve 912. In this regard, the first pressure in the pressurized reservoir 922 is greater than the ambient pressure (eg, atmospheric pressure), and thus may be greater than the second pressure proximate to the nebulizer 913. In other words, the storage unit 922 can be pressurized.

  The reservoir 922 can be pressurized in various ways. For example, in addition to the aerosol precursor composition, carbon dioxide, air, or other compressible fluid may be introduced into the reservoir 922 at a positive pressure. As a further example, within the reservoir, the piston and compression spring may be configured to drive the aerosol precursor composition therefrom.

  FIG. 7 shows an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the aerosol delivery device 900. As shown, when the flow sensor 910 (see, eg, FIG. 6) detects inhalation, current can be applied to the active valve 912 such that the active valve opens momentarily one or more times. For example, a signal from the flow sensor 910 may cause the active valve 912 to start directly, or a signal from the flow sensor may be provided to the controller and directed to start the active valve. Good. This causes the aerosol precursor composition 932 held in the pressurized reservoir 922 to heat the nebulizer 913 as a result of the air in proximity to the sprayer being at a relatively lower pressure than the pressurized reservoir. May be released toward element 914. In addition, the nebulizer 913 may include a housing 931 that defines a chamber 933 (see, eg, FIG. 6) in which the heating element 914 is positioned and the aerosol precursor composition 932 is delivered. Thus, problems associated with the aerosol precursor composition 932 being directed into the air 928 and directed to the user without being vaporized can be avoided. In this regard, the aerosol precursor composition 932 can be directed into contact with the heating element 914 in the chamber 933 to ensure its vaporization.

  In this regard, when the flow sensor 910 detects inhalation in the aerosol delivery device 900, current from the power source 908 can be directed to the heating element 914 to generate heat. As such, the aerosol precursor composition 932 directed thereto may be heated and vaporized to define an aerosol or vapor 934. Steam 934 may be formed in chamber 933 and then exit from it. Steam 934 can then be mixed with air 928 and exit through the mouthpiece 924.

  Chamber 933 may be configured to provide an optimal discharge rate of vapor 934 therefrom to air 928. In this regard, as shown in FIGS. 5-7, chamber 933 may include one or more outflow holes 936. As shown in FIG. 7, the steam 934 may exit the chamber 933 through the outflow hole 936.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7, in one embodiment, the chamber 933 may additionally define one or more inflow holes 938. Inflow hole 938 may be configured to allow air 928 to flow therethrough into chamber 933. Thus, as the user inhales aerosol delivery device 900, air 928 entering through inflow hole 938 may be mixed with vapor 934 and exit through outflow hole 936. In this regard, as shown, inflow hole 938 has air 928 flowing through aerosol delivery device 900 impinging on inflow hole 938 (eg, the inflow hole extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol delivery device. And thus can extend substantially parallel to the airflow therethrough. Thus, the inflow hole 928 can help remove the vapor 934 from the chamber 933.

  Further, in some embodiments, a valve may be provided at one or both of the inflow hole 938 and the outflow hole 936. Such valves can be opened or closed passively or actively to allow air 928 to flow into chamber 933 and / or steam 934 to flow out of the chamber. Alternatively or additionally, inflow holes 938 and / or outflow holes 936 provide a desired flow of vapor 934 from chamber 933 while at the same time ensuring substantially complete vaporization of the aerosol precursor composition. In particular, it can be dimensioned.

  It should be noted that in the aerosol delivery device embodiments described above, the nebulizers of various embodiments can be used to vaporize the aerosol precursor composition. Such atomizers include planar heaters, winding surfaces, microheaters (eg, embedded on a chip) glass plate, lasers, resistance heaters, and heaters of any other shapes and embodiments. Can do. Furthermore, the materials used in the first heating element and the second heating element may be different. For example, the materials described above for wire coil heating elements may be used. Various other materials that may be used in the heating elements described herein can include platinum or platinum-coated materials, and resistive inks (eg, printed on ceramic materials).

  Certain aerosol delivery devices described herein may avoid certain problems associated with conventional aerosol delivery devices that use wicks. In this regard, the use of wicks can cause separation of the components of the aerosol precursor composition. Furthermore, transporting the aerosol precursor composition from the substrate to the heating element using a wick can lead to leakage. As such, embodiments of aerosol delivery devices disclosed herein may provide these and / or other advantages.

  As described above, the aerosol delivery device embodiments of the present disclosure may include a cartridge and a controller. Although the present aerosol delivery device has been described such that certain components thereof are positioned within the control body while other components are positioned within the cartridge, these configurations are provided for illustrative purposes only. I want you to understand. In this regard, any of the components of the aerosol delivery device can be positioned within the cartridge or within the control body. However, it may generally be desirable to position the reservoir within the cartridge so that the cartridge can be easily replaced or refilled by removing the cartridge from the control.

  While the aerosol delivery devices disclosed herein are generally described as including a cartridge (eg, a replaceable cartridge) and a control body (eg, a reusable control body), various other implementations Note also that the form may be used. For example, in other embodiments, the aerosol delivery device may include more than two parts. In additional embodiments, the aerosol delivery device may define an integral one-piece configuration.

  In an additional embodiment, a method for aerosolization in an aerosol delivery device is provided. As shown in FIG. 8, the method may include, at operation 1502, directing an air stream from a controller through a cartridge comprising a reservoir that is at least partially filled with an aerosol precursor composition. Further, the method includes, at operation 1504, an aerosol precursor from the reservoir to the nebulizer with the heating element based on the pressure difference between the first pressure in the reservoir and the second pressure proximate to the nebulizer. Controlling dispensing of the composition may be included. The method may additionally include, at operation 1506, heating the aerosol precursor composition dispensed from the reservoir with a heating element to add the aerosol to the air stream.

  In some embodiments of the method, the first pressure in the reservoir may be greater than ambient pressure (atmospheric pressure). In addition, controlling the dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition at operation 1504 may include selectively releasing the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir with a valve. Further, the method can include detecting airflow with a flow sensor. Controlling the dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition at operation 1504 may include starting a valve in response to a signal from the flow sensor. Selective release of the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir with the valve can include directing the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir within the cartridge through a valve within the controller.

  In some embodiments, the internal pressure within the reservoir can be substantially equal to ambient pressure (eg, atmospheric pressure). In addition, controlling the dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition at operation 1504 creates a pressure difference between the first pressure in the reservoir and the second pressure proximate the nebulizer at the flow restrictor. Can include. The method includes delivering an aerosol precursor composition through a fluid delivery tube to a heating element during application of a pressure differential and otherwise resisting the flow of the aerosol precursor composition to the heating element. It may further include. Controlling the dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition at operation 1504 may include directing the aerosol precursor composition to a nebulizer chamber in which the heating element is positioned.

  Those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure relates will come up with numerous modifications and other embodiments of the present disclosure utilizing the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the associated drawings. . Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, and modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Should be understood. Although specific terms are used herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims (21)

A control body;
A cartridge comprising a reservoir at least partially filled with an aerosol precursor composition and configured to receive an airflow from said control body;
A nebulizer with a heating element;
Configured to control dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir based on a pressure difference between a first pressure in the reservoir and a second pressure proximate to the nebulizer. A pressure control device,
An aerosol delivery device, wherein the nebulizer is configured to heat the aerosol precursor composition received from the reservoir and add the aerosol to the air stream.   The aerosol delivery device of claim 1, wherein the nebulizer defines a chamber and the heating element is positioned within the chamber.   3. The aerosol delivery device according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the first pressure in the reservoir is greater than ambient pressure.   4. The aerosol delivery device of claim 3, wherein the pressure control device comprises a valve configured to selectively release the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir.   5. The aerosol delivery device of claim 4, further comprising a flow sensor, wherein the valve is configured to start in response to a signal from the flow sensor.   The aerosol delivery device of claim 4, wherein the cartridge includes the valve and the nebulizer.   The aerosol delivery device of claim 4, wherein the control body includes the valve and the nebulizer.   The valve is in fluid communication with the reservoir when the controller comprises a coupler, the cartridge comprises a base, and the coupler of the controller is coupled to the base of the cartridge. Item 8. The aerosol delivery device according to Item 7.   3. The aerosol delivery device according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the first pressure in the reservoir is substantially equal to ambient pressure.   10. The flow restrictor comprises a flow restrictor configured to create a pressure difference between the first pressure in the reservoir and the second pressure proximate to the nebulizer. Said aerosol delivery device.   The aerosol delivery device of claim 10, wherein the controller includes the flow restrictor.   12. The aerosol delivery device according to any one of claims 10 and 11, wherein the flow restrictor comprises one or more restrictor holes.   13. The aerosol delivery device according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the reservoir comprises an aerosol precursor bag.   The nebulizer delivers the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir to the heating element during application of the pressure differential, otherwise resists flow of the aerosol precursor composition to the heating element 10. The aerosol delivery device of claim 9, further comprising a fluid delivery tube configured as described above. A method for aerosolization in an aerosol delivery device comprising:
Directing an air stream from a controller through a cartridge comprising a reservoir at least partially filled with an aerosol precursor composition;
Controlling dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir to a nebulizer with a heating element based on a pressure difference between a first pressure in the reservoir and a second pressure proximate to the nebulizer. To do
Heating the aerosol precursor composition dispensed from the reservoir with the heating element and adding the aerosol to the air stream.   16. The method of claim 15, wherein controlling dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition comprises directing the aerosol precursor composition into a chamber of the nebulizer in which the heating element is positioned. . The first pressure in the reservoir is greater than ambient pressure;
17. The aerosol precursor composition according to any one of claims 15 and 16, wherein controlling dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition comprises selectively releasing the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir with a valve. Said method. Further comprising detecting airflow with a flow sensor;
The method of claim 17, wherein controlling dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition comprises activating the valve in response to a signal from the flow sensor.   Selective release of the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir at the valve comprises directing the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir in the cartridge through the valve in the control body. 19. The method according to any one of claims 17 and 18. The internal pressure in the reservoir is substantially equal to the ambient pressure;
Controlling dispensing of the aerosol precursor composition creates a pressure difference between the first pressure in the reservoir and the second pressure proximate to the nebulizer in a flow restrictor. 17. The method of any one of claims 15 and 16, comprising.   Delivering the aerosol precursor composition to the heating element through a fluid delivery tube during application of the pressure differential; otherwise resisting flow of the aerosol precursor composition to the heating element; 21. The method of claim 20, further comprising:

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